Bridging epilepsy treatment gap in developing countries based on Damtie’s `D model

Abstract

Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological disorder and is one of the world’s most prevalent non–communicable diseases. Over ⅘ of the 50 million people with epilepsy worldwide are thought to be living in the developing countries. It is believed that around 90 % of people with epilepsy in these countries are not receiving appropriate treatment (treatment gap). Several factors that hinder people with epilepsy to obtain adequate care are mentioned and very simplified model to bridge the gap is described.